Image via Amaze
Amaze founder and artistic director Thorsten S. Wiedemann is temporarily stepping down after violating the event's safe space policy and code of conduct.
In a statement posted on the Amaze website, Wiedemann admitted to behaving unprofessionally at Amaze Sheffield in August 2024 by making offensive comments towards members of the production team and engaging in "non sexual-harassment under the influence of alcohol."
"Reflecting on my actions, I recognize that I acted inappropriately and will take full responsibility," said Wiedemann. "I yelled at the production and organizing team when the party was shut down, which was completely disrespectful. I was verbally offensive towards a participating DJ and their music, which was uncalled for. I invaded others' personal space, which was inconsiderate and out of line."
"I deeply regret my behavior throughout the event and understand how it negatively impacted others. This was entirely wrong, and I am committed to learning from this experience to ensure it never happens again and try to repair what got broken."
Wiedemann has vacated his position less than two months before Amaze Berlin is scheduled to begin on May 14, 2025.
He will be stepping back from all public roles on a temporary basis while he begins therapy to address the "root causes" of his behavior. It's unclear when Wiedemann will return to the fold or in what capacity.
Amaze was established over a decade ago to shine a spotlight on arthouse games and other forms of playful media.
As noted in the Amaze code of conduct, event organizers say they are "dedicated to providing a harassment-free social experience for everyone. They have also apologized for Wiedemann's "unacceptable" behavior.
"Our apologies go to all members of the Sheffield production, the performers, DJs, artists, venue workers and visitors who were affected by this. We wish to thank the people who came forward with this information to the A MAZE. / Berlin team and trust us with their concerns," they wrote.
A raft of immediate and long-term changes will be implemented in response to Wiedemann's actions, including an organizational restructure designed to decentralize the decision-making process and efforts to make the code of conduct more visible.
An updated emergency response structure will also be ushered in to provide a "clearer formal protocol and team structure to respond swiftly to any future incidents."
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